A: Since Brazil is a tropical country, it is warm all year around (the average temperature is 82º). During Carnival and Christmas time in Brazil, it is harder to get good flight rates to travel to Brazil. Otherwise, you can travel to Brazil just about anytime your team is available to come.

02. WHAT TYPES OF SHOTS/IMMUNIZATIONS DO I NEED TO TAKE?

A: Even though it is not required, one can always take yellow fever shot. Regarding malaria pills, they are not necessary however if a team member feels better taking them, I would recommend taking the malaria pills.

03. WHAT DOES FUNDAMED PROVIDE FOR IN-COUNTRY?

A: FUNDAMED provides for the hotel stay while in Brazil. FUNDAMED also provides for the meals, at the hotel, during the stay in Brazil. Finally FUNDAMED arranges for local transportation in the host city (only during the official mission).

04. WHAT IF I WOULD LIKE TO TRAVEL IN BRAZIL AFTER THE MISSION?

A: Many teams in the past have stayed in Brazil for an extra few days to enjoy the country and relax. FUNDAMED can assist in arranging tours, hotel reservations, and so on. However, after the official mission, any travel-related costs will become the responsability of the international team, or team members.

05. DO I NEED TO TAKE BOTTLED WATER TO BRAZIL?

A: No, it is not necessary to bring bottled water in Brazil. It can be purchased here!

06. WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE FOR VOLUNTEERS DURING THE MISSION?

A: Volunteers should dress appropriately, in “greens” or in white coveralls, during the official daily activities. Even though you are in a tropical country, and are providing a volunteer service, the team members represent the medical profession, dress code included. After hours, team members should dress as comfortably as they possibly can!

07. WHAT ELSE IS EXPECTED OF THE VOLUNTEER DURING THE TRIP?

A: FUNDAMED’s most important objetive is to strenghten international relationships and friendships. Besides the social and medical benefits of the volunteer missions, the possibility to exchange knowledge by teaching and learning, and the ability to forge partnerships, while enjoying the country and our people, is what FUNDAMED is all about. We want you to enjoy yourself and have fun.

08. DO U.S CITIZENS NEED A VISA TO TRAVEL BRAZIL?

U.S. citizens do need a visa to travel to Brazil. If you are coming for tourism reasons, a tourist visa is needed. For those coming as part of a medical mission, a temporary cultural visa is necessary (please refer to Visa Information).

09. WHAT IS THE LANGUAGE SPOKEN IN BRAZIL?

Portuguese! For those who are not aware, there are more portuguese-speaking people in South and Central America than spanish-speaking people.